This 12-credit certificate will prepare students to take the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification and also the CompTIA Network+ certification. The coursework includes Cisco semesters 1-4. Skill development covers LAN/WAN networking technology and concepts, networking math, networking media, router configuration, switching, VLANS, routing protocols and WAN links and services. The instructor will evaluate computer skills necessary to enter this certificate program. Students should have good reading and study skills, basic computer literacy and awareness of the Internet. Prior experience with computer hardware, binary math and basic electronics is desired but not required. Background in cabling is beneficial. Upon completion of this certificate the student will be able to take the Cisco CCNA and CompTIA Network+ certification exams offered though VUE or Prometric testing centers.

1. Analyze networking models.
2. Analyze networking protocols
3. Configure local area Networks
4. Configure wide area networks
5. Define common industry terms and standards
6. Troubleshoot LAN/WAN systems

Cisco Systems is a leader in the Information Systems Networking industry. Employment opportunities for Cisco certified technicians involve designing, building and maintaining the IT infrastructure. As information retrieval adapts to the changing on-demand mobile work force maintaining the networking infrastructure becomes more important. Network infrastructure employment opportunities are growing in the health, telecommunications and cable-TV industries where voice, video and data are transported over an IP infrastructure and information is transported and available on demand.

The College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, (800) 621-7440, 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602-2504.